Eligible New Yorkers Get Energy Efficiency Break

Mar 26, 2008

Energy prices can put a strain on household budgets, especially on those with a fixed or moderate income. That is why National Grid and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) are making it more affordable to make energy-efficient home improvements.

Through NYSERDA's Assisted Home Performance with Energy Star® Program, upstate New York households can make energy-efficiency improvements more easily. The program covers up to 50 percent of the costs associated with energy-efficiency improvements for income eligible families, up to $5,000 per household or $10,000 for a two- to four-family residence. Through Sept. 30, income-eligible National Grid gas customers can receive an additional 10 percent subsidy, when the installation of eligible heating equipment is included as part of the energy- efficiency home improvements. This addition results in 60 percent of the work being covered. National Grid gas customers can receive up to $6,000 for a single- family home and up to $12,000 for a two- to four-family home.

To be eligible, families have to meet income requirements based on the number of people in the household and area of the state in which they live. For example, a family of four in Oneida County would have to have an annual income of less than $57,744 to qualify for the subsidy. A chart to determine income eligibility by county can be found at www.GetEnergySmart.org and clicking on Single Family Homes.

"Making energy efficiency improvements in a home helps lower energy costs, creates a healthier living environment and reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming," said Paul D. Tonko, NYSERDA president and chief executive officer. "Our enhanced incentive will help National Grid Gas customers save thousands of dollars on their initial efficiency investments, while also saving hundreds each year on their energy bills. Saving energy, being good stewards of the environment, and investing in a strong societal commitment to future generations have never been a better investment."

The first step toward making a home more energy-efficient is to schedule a Comprehensive Home Assessment with a contractor participating in the Assisted Home Performance Program. The contractor will identify what improvements can be made, the cost of making those improvements, and available financial incentives. The contractor will also estimate monthly savings on energy bills and length of time each improvement will take to pay for itself.